| Copyright | Participants retain full copyright of their images and also grant the Directorate General for Regional Policy (of the European Commission) the right to publish and exhibit uploaded photographs. No fee will be payable to the Directorate-General for Regional Policy (European Commission) for this use. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all EU citizens aged 18 and above |
| Finish | 31 August 2012 |
| Entry fee | Free |
FinishedEnter a photo of a project receiving regional funding you know or have seen with the plaque or billboard with funding information and the EU flag somewhere in the picture.
Categories:
- My Project – for the representatives of projects which have received support from the European Regional Development Fund or the EU Cohesion Fund.
- Eyewitness – open to anyone who spots a great photo opportunity showing a project in their region or when travelling to another region.
Prizes:
- €1 000 to spend on digital camera equipment
- a trip for two to Brussels
Online submission of digital images via Facebook. Two winning photographs will be selected; one by a jury and one by popular vote. Entrants can submit up to 3 photographs per category.
Frequently asked questions — Free photography contests
Who can enter free photography contests?
Most free contests welcome photographers worldwide, regardless of experience level or equipment. Many explicitly encourage students, hobbyists, and emerging creators—always verify age requirements or thematic restrictions on the official contest page.
Are free photography contests really free?
Yes—entry is $0 across the board. Some contests offer optional paid perks like expedited feedback or printed certificates, but submission, judging, and basic participation remain completely free. Fee status is confirmed in the Quick Facts section on each PhotoCompete listing.
What prizes do free photography contests offer?
Prizes vary widely: cash awards range $100–$5,000, while non-monetary rewards include online features, publication credits, mentorship sessions, exhibition inclusion, or gear donations. Even without cash, free contests offer valuable exposure and portfolio-building opportunities.
How do I choose which free contest to enter?
Prioritize contests whose theme or mission aligns with your work. Review past winners to gauge style preferences, confirm technical specs (resolution, file format), and read rights clauses carefully—even free contests may request usage rights for promotional purposes.